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THE  ROBERT   E.  COWAN  COLLECTION 


i'K  I   si    S  I  'Kit    TO    THE 


UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA 


C.  P.  HUNTINGTON 


JUNE.   1897. 


Accession  No 


J^/jfo     Class  No.?  ?** 
—  "TrlT 


r#- 


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Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 

in  2007  with  funding  from 

Microsoft  Corporation 


http://www.archive.org/details/dotyseditionofmaOOauberich 


DOTY'S  EDITION 


■ 


OF 


MADAME  THILLON'S 


A. 


OF  THE 


? 


PUBLISHED  BY  H.  H.  DOTY, 

(SOLE    PUBLISHER    FOR    THE    STATE    OF    CALIFORNIA) 


r\-rr ' 


OF  TH« 


UNIVERSITY 


SAN    FRANCISCO: 

PRINTED  AT  THE  EVENING  NEWS  OFFICE. 


1854. 


■  n 


m 


up 


CITY  OBSERVATORY, 

Montgomery  Street,  one  door  from  Commercial, 

WITCH  AID  CHBONOMETFJ  liliEItS, 

MANUFACTURERS  AND  IMPORTERS  OP 

FINE  WATCHES  AM  RICH  JEWELRY, 

BI*ESS    <fe    CREIGHTON,    Chronometer   Makers,    New    York;    T.    F. 

COOPER  and  THOMAS  PORTHOUSE,  Watch  Manufacturers, 

London  ;    and  for  the  sale  of  the  British  Admiralty  Charts. 


1%%,%,  %$^1>%%1b1 


1 


By  the  ftrst  English  and  Swiss  makers,  imported  by  us  direct  from  the 
of  manufacture. 


% 
In  every  style  of  Ladies'  Ornaments,  of  the  most  beautiful  and  valuable  discriptions. 

ASSORTED  JEWELRY, 

In.Hings.  Pins,  Guard,  Vest  &  Fob  Chains,  Lockets,  Ear-rings,  Bracelets, 
Seals  &  Keys,  Thimbles,  Cuff-Pins,  Charms,  Pencils,  Toothpicks,  cfec. 


11  00a  lilWAGf on, 

The  choicest  designs  in  Diamond,  Specimen,  chased  and  engraved  Jewel- 
ry are  made  up  by  the  best  Workmen  in  the  United  States  or  Europe. 


Commands  special  attention   from  the    fact  that  we  are  practical  Watch 

Manufacturers, — our  experience  having  been  acquired  by  residences  in  London 

and  Liverpool  Factories,  where  we  sojourned  several  years 

FOR      nwH^no-XTDESTWCDES^T- 


DOXY'S  EDITION 


OF 


MADAIVIE  THILLON'S 


■ 


OF  THE 


ft 


\T  TRn 


■*  ♦ 


PUBLISHED  BY  H.  H.  DOTY, 

(SOLE  PUBLISHER  FOR  THE  STATE  OF  CALIFORNIA) 


SAN    FRANCISCO: 

PRINTED  AT  THE  EVENING  NEWS  OFFICE. 

1854. 


V4'J1* 


M 


DRAMATIS    PERSONS. 


Count  de  Campo  Mayor,  (Minister  of  Police.) 

Don  Henrique  de  Sandoval,  (his  Nephew.)     s 

Don  Sebastian  D'Aveyro,  (a  Young  Officer".) 

Rebolledo,  (  Chief  of  the  Coiners.) 

Burburigo,   (    ^  .  ) 

»*-  I    Coiners.    > 

Magnoz,       (  ) 

First  Gentleman  Usher. 

Second  Gentleman  Usher. 

Courier, 

Notary. 

La  Catarina. 

Diana,  (Daughter  to  Campo  Mayor.) 

Regents,  Lords,  Ladies,  Bishops,  Military  and  Naval  Officers, 

Valets,  Coiners,  Monks,  Populace,  Soldiers,  <&c. 


/A  *S>  «  1  A<\      >l  T  t  T/  A  5W* 


THE 


CROWN  DIAMONDS. 


ACT  FIRST. 

A  ETJINKD  CHATEAU  IN  THE  MOUNTAINS  NEAR  COIMBBA. 

At  the  back,  a  Staircase  half  broken .down  ^l^adine  to 
Subteranean  Passage,  partly  hidden  by  Rocks,  leading  to 
the  Vaults  below. 
At  the  rising  of  the  curtain  Don  Henrique  U  perceived 
cautiously  descending  the  staircase. 
Hen.  A  pretty  adventure  this  !-overtaken  in  these  moun- 
tains by  a  complete  tornado— impossible  to  get  on  because 
the  horses  refused  to  advance  a  step  farther-I  leave  the 
post-chaise  in  the  care  of  my  valet,  Pedro,  and  ascend  to  the 
Hermitage  of  St  Huberts,  in  order  to  enquire  of  the  holy  fa- 
ther the  road  to  Coimbra,  but  only  to  find  the  cell  vacant, 
and  a  trap-door,  half  hidden  by  brushwood,  partly  open  in 
the  centre  of  the  floor.  Thinking  the  good  hermit  might, 
have  gone  down  to  some  lower  apartment  to  seek  the  better 
shelter  from  the  storm,  I  determined  to  follow  him  :  descend 
first  ten,  then  twenty,  stairs  ;  nearly  break  my  neck  ;  and 
here  I  am  Here  I  am  !-yes,  but  where  am  -I  ?-oi  that  I 
know  nothing.  [Thunder  and  lightning.)  Egad,  old  Bo- 
reas is  out  for  a  frolic,  and  seems  determined  to  make  a  night 
of  it  in  earnest. 

[Hen.  conceals  himself  behind  the  rocks.      Rebol 
Mugn.  artdBuBB.  descend  the  staircase,  the  two  latter 
carrrying  a  portmanteau. 
Rebol.  (descending)  Come  along,  come  along. 
Mugn.  Come  along  1   it  is  very  easy  for  you  to  say  come 
along  who  have  nothing  to  carry  ;  but  is  not  so  easy  to  get 
along  with  this  thing  tied  to  one's  tail ;  it  is  infernally  heavy. 
Burb.    Not  heavy  enough  so,  to  my  thinking. 
Hen.  [aside]  My  poor  portmanteau,  as  I  live  ! 
Rebol.  )laughing]  Ha,  ha,  ha  t  how  the  postillion  scuttled 
oft"  when  we  approached. 

Hen.  [aside]  My  servant  Pedro ,  no  doubt. 
Rebol.   And  to  think  of  the  horses,  when  they  got  their 
heads  free,  galloping  straight  over  the  precipice  of  the  Black 
Rocks  ! 


Hen.  [aside]  Then  here  I  am  afoot  I 

Rebol.  You  didn't  see  them  rolling  and  smashing  over  and 
over  with  the  carriage  ?— ha,  ha  I  it  was  a  rare  sight. 

Hen.  [aside]  A  charming  prospect,  no  doubt. 

Mugn.  No ;  I  was  occupied  in  taking  care  of  the  port- 
manteau, the  only  thing  we  were  able  to  save ;  what  is  there 

in  it? 

Burb.  [having  opened  the  portmanteau]  Nothing  but  some 
clothes-dress  coats,  velvet  breeches— stay,  a  purse  of  gold  ; 
some  papers ;  the  minature  of  a  female— 

Mugn.  A  bundle  of  cigars  ! 

Hen  [aside]  The  last  ^of  my  dearly  cherished  Havanas 

Rebol.  \seated  at  the  table]  Let's r-see  if  they  are  passable. 

Mugn  &  Burb.  [seating  themselves]  A  very  good  idea. 

[All  light  cigars. 

Mugn.  Now  let's  see  what  these,  papers  contain. 

Rebol  [stretching  his  arms  across  the  table  and  taking  pa- 
pers from  Mugn]  No,  they  must  be  reserved  for  the  inspec- 
tion of  La  Catarina. 

Burb.  La  Catarina!  it  seems  we  can  do  nothing  without 

her  I 

Mugn.  She,  forsooth,  must  be  consulted  about  all  our  ex- 
peditions I  ,,    ,, 

Burb.  Yes,  and  when  she  is  consulted  she  wont  allow 
them  ;  but  keeps  us  here  working  night  and  day. 

Rebol   As  if  you  were  honest  men-and  that  fatigues  you. 
Burb.  Anything  fatigues  a  man  that  he  is  not  used  to.- 
Then,  to  be  obliged  to  obey  a  woman  !— it's  humiliating. 
Mugn.  So  it  is-very.    Who  is  she,  I  should  like  to  know! 
Rebol.  I'll  tell  you  who  she  is:  the  daughter  of  your  an- 
cient chief-of  my  brother,  Miguel  Salvator  Rebolledo,  the 
king  of  the  Bohemians  and  smugglers  of  Estramadura  who 
for  twenty  years  poured  gold  like  dross  into  the  pockets  of 
you  and  your  fellows. 

Mugn.  That's  true,  he  did  so;  he  was  a  man  of  talent,  was 

Miguel. 


THE   CROWN    DIAMONDS 


Burb.  The  Prince  of  smugglers  ! 

Mugn.  Ah,  if  he  had  been  alive,  we  should  never  have  had 
to  submit  to  the  degradation  of  working  for  a  living. 

Rebol.  But  if  this  very  work  should,  through  the  means  of 
his  daughter,  have  the  effect  of  realising  each  and  all  of  you  a 
handsome  independence — 
Mugn.  Ah,  bah! 

Rebol.  A  comfortable  roof  to  cover  you  ;  plenty  of  money 
to  spend  as  long  as  you  live,  and  the  certainty  of  lying  down 
to  die,  instead  of  being  hung  up. 

Burb.  That's  something,  though  I  should  be  the  first  of  my 
family  who  ever  did ;  but  who  is  to  ensure  this  ? 

Rebol.  I  will— I,  Antonio  Rebolledo,  who  Btand  here  as  the 
representative  of  my  niece,  La  Catarina, 

Mugn.  Representative— yes,  that's  very  well ;  but  why  do 
we  never  see  her — why,  when  she  comes  here  does  she  com- 
municate with  you  alone  ? 
Burb.  Above  all  things,  why  is  she  almost  always  absent  ? 
Rebol.  For  your  good ;  young  and  handsome  as  she  is,  and, 
moreover,  brought  up  like  a  duchess— for  my  brother  had  a 
touch  of  religion  about  him,  and,  as  you  know,  removed  her 
from  here  at  twelve  years  of  age  to  a  convent— she  moves  in 
the  first  society  in  Lisbon,  and  gives  me  knowledge  of  all  that 
passes  there  which  may  concern  us. 
Mugn.  I  have  heard  she  is  marvellously  handsome. 
Rebol.  Handsome !  I  believe  you ;  she's  the  picture  of  me. 
Burb.  Where  is  she  now  1 

Rebol.  At  the  convent  of  the  mountain,  where  she  has  ar- 
rived as  a  fine  lady,  with  a  splendid  equipage,  and  whence, 
by  a  subterranean  pass  which   communicates  with  this  vault 
she  comes  to  pay  us  a  visit  this  day. 
Mugn.  To-day ! 

Rebol.  Yes,  to  inspect  the  work  she  last  ordered,  and  you 
had  all  better  be  careful  that  no  part  of  it  has  been  neglected ; 
for,  if  it  has,  remember  I  dont  neglect  to  keep  my  armory 
in  apple-pie  condition — [touching  his  belt.] 

Mugn.  [laughing]  Ha,  ha,  ha !  I  do  believe  that  you  are  in 
love  with  yourneice. 

Rebol.  So  I  am ;  and  if  you  knew  what  she  has  done  for  me 
you  would  be  so  too.  Harkye  :  I  told  you  on  my  last  return 
from  Lisbon  that,  while  vending  some  of  our  precious  wares, 
I  was  recognized,  seized,  and  taken  before  the  Count  de 
Campo,  Mayor,  Minister  ot  .Justice  and  Police,  convicted  and 
sentenced  to  be  hung.  Well,  I  escaped  through  this  very 
niece,  La  Catarina;  the  morning  on  which  I  was  to  have 
been  executed,  she  entered  my  dungeon,  threw  me  a  monk's 
robe  and  cowl,  told  me  to  put  them  on  and  follow  her.  We 
passed  the  outer  gates,  which  seemed  to  fiy  open  at  a  whisper- 
ed word  from  her  to  the  guard,  when,  placing  me  in  a  car- 
raige  which  was  waiting  at  the  corner  of  an  adjoining  street, 
she  gave  me  the  pass-word  and  told  me  that  relays  of  horses 
were  provided  for  me  at  every  stage  betwixt  Lisbon  and 
these  mountains. 

Burb.  Well,  if  she  had  done  as  much  for  me,  I  should  love 
her,  too. 
Mugn.  So  should  I. 

Rebol.  (to  Mugn.)  Silence !  'tis  the  hour  at  which  she  ap 
pointed  to  be  here,  call  the  workmen  together  ;  (to  Bukb.) 
and  do  you  sound  the  bell. 

Hev.  (aside)  I'm  discovered  to  a  certainty. 


(Mugn.  and  Rebol.  see  Hen.  who  advances  on 
perceiving  that  he  is  discovered. 
Rebol.  A  stranger. 

(Bubb.  sounds  the  bell;  Hen.  draws  his  sword, 
the  gang  of  Coiners  rush  in  and  disarm  him. 
Enter  Catarina. 
CHORUS   AND  CONCERTED  PIECE. 
Ah,  who  is  he  that  dares  thus  our  secrets  surprise  ? 
Seize  the  traitor — for  his  madness  he  dies  ! 
Cat.  Hold,  forbear !  [  They  seize  him. 

Hen.  Heavens,  what  beauty  ! 
Rebol.  Comrades,  'tis  Catarina ! 
Cat.  Yes,  'tis  I ! 

Doth  not  each  Bohemian  to  me  for  aid  in  danger  fly  ? 
I'm  the  Queen  of  these  fair  mountains,  who  dares  my 

sovereignty  deny  ? 
By  laws  severe,  by  means  mysterious,  say  who  the  country 

round  doth  rule  ? 
'Ti8  I !  what  is  the  power,  who  is  the  saint, 
That  all  invoke  in  tones  of  fear  ?— 'tis  I. 

Doth  not,  &c. 
This  hand  give's  you  justice,  oppression  none  doth  fear; 
I  can  punish,  although  not  an  Algauzil  be  near. 
Then,  if  at  evening,  through  the  green  glade 
Hieth  a  maiden  in  the  deep  shade — 
Pretty  trembler,  be  not  afraid  ; 
For  pass  ye  one,  or  pass  ye  two, 
I  never  interfere  with  lovers  true. 
Upon  this,  straight  a  young  villager  appears, 
'     Bowing  profoundly  ;  both,  in  tones  subdued, 
An  Ave  Maria  are  singing.     Thus,  to  the  patroness, 
The  saint  of  this  mountain,  unto  St.  Cat'rina, 
Ave  Marias  they  bring. 
Cho.  Ah,  to  Cat'rina,  Queen  of  this  fair  mountain' 

All  do  thus  their  otfrings  bring. 
Cat.  Let  me  know  your  name  and  condition. 
Hen.  Don  Henrique  di  Sandovel, 

Marquis  of  Santa  Cruz. 
Cat.  Ah,  a  wild  and  gay  young  spark,  who  for  six  years 

Has  absent  been  from  home. 
Hen.  How  know  you  that  ? 
Cat.  I  know  all— your  education  to  complete, 
Your  noble  parents  thought  it  meet, 
That  abroad  you  should  roam  ;  and  now,  they  say. 
From  foreign  lands  return'd, 
You  numerous  things  have  learn'd— 

Hen.  Yes— 
Cat.  All  things,  save  wisdom. 
Hen.  Who  told  you  that? 
Cet.  The  proof  seems  very  clear  ; 

'Tis  instane'd  in  your  coming  here. 
This  place,  say  how  you've  found 
Hen.  Quite  by  chance,  I  assure  you,  or  I  ne'er  had  made  so 

bold. 
Rebol.  Within  his  valise   we  have  discover'd  these  letters 

this  portrait,  this  gold. 
Cat.  A  lady,  I  presume,  sir.    Ah,  let  me  have  discretion. 

His  gold  and  the  portrait  he  back  may  receive. 
Hen.  My  ears  I  scarcely  can  believe. 
Cat.  The  letters  we  at  leisure  will  read. 


TTTK    OH  OWN    DIAMONDS 


Rebol.  It's  a  veiy  pretty  face,  indeed. 

Cat.  So  it  is;  but  I  think  it  one  that  faithless  will  pi  ove. 

Hen.  That  thought's  an  outrage  to  love. 

Cat.  I've  read  the  stars  all  my  life, 

And  I  predict  she'll  never  be  your  wife. 
And  now,  sir,  let'sAto  business  ;  for  two  or  three 
Months  here  a  prisoner  you'll  remain 
And  after  that  we'll  see. 
Hen.  Two  or  three  months  1 
Rebol.  Be  silent ! 
Hen.  Will  you  grant  me  the  favor  of  but  one  moment's  au 

dience  1 
Cat.  Yes.  (So  the]Chor7is.)  Here  no  longer  stay, 
But  to  your  work  away  ; 
Quick,  obey  ! 

This  day  you  your  task  must  accomplish. 
My  servants  sworn  ye  are. 
Yes,  the  sovereign  of  these,  &c. 
Cho.  Yes  this  day  our  task  we  will  accomplish, 
For  her  servants  sworn  we  are  ; 
She  of  these  mountains  is  the  Queen— Catarina  1 
Cat.  (to  Hen.  What  would  you  ?  speak  ! 

Hen.  You  have  done  me  the  honor  to  invite  me  to  pass 
two  or  three  months  here  ;  and  under  any  other  circumstan- 
ces I  should  be  too  happy,  two  delighted,  to  spend  that  time 
with  you. 
Rebol.  Should  you  really. 

Hen.  [to  Rfbol.]  I  spoke  to  your  mistress,  friend,  and 
notto^you.  [To  Cat.]  But,  unfortunately,  I  have  affairs  to 

Cat.  Of  what  nature  ? 

Hen.  After  having  been,  as  you  seem  to  know,  six  years 
absent  from  Portugal,  travelling  for  pleasure,  I,  ten  days 
ago,  received  a  letter  from  my  uncle,  the  Count  de  Campo 
Mayor — 

Rebol.  The  Minister  of  Justice  and  Police,  who  was  very 
near  hanging  and  burning  me  the  other  day. 

Hen.  (to  Rebol.)  I  am  told  that  his  great  fault  is  that  he 
too  frequently  does  things  by  halves.  [ To  Cat.]  It  inform- 
ed me  that  at  the  death  of  our  late  gracious  sovereign,  he  had 
been  named  one  of  the  Regents  of  the  Kingdom  during  the 
minority  of  the  Princess  Maria  Francesca  ;  he  likewise  en- 
treated me  to  return  home  immediately,  in  order  to  conclude 
an  alliance  between  myself  and  my  young  cousin,  Diana,  his 
daughter.  She  now  waits  my  ret, ten  at  their  chateau,  near 
Coimbra.  Grant  me  permission  to  proceed  immediately,  or 
my  poor  cousin  may  perhaps  go  distracted 

wS:  wtf ysas^f0*"  bem  ******  «-^j 

Rebol.  Just  what  he  says.  But  here  is  something  more  •  a 
blank  passport,  for  any  number  of  persons  to  travel  through 
the  kingdom,  which  we  can  fill  up. 

Hen.  'Twas  sent  me  by  my  uncle  for  any  number  of  friends 
whom  I  might  wish  to  bring  with  me;  but  coming  alone  I 
have  not  used  it.  ' 

Cat.  'Twill  serve  our  purpose  admirably  !  (To  Hbn.)  So 
Don  Henrique,  you  are  about  to  be  married,  eh? 

Hen.  Why-hem-with  your  permission,  senora. 

Cat.  (smiling)  Which  it  would  break  your  heart,  I  sup- 
E3S&K*  88  Diana  i8«  **  "V.  the  handsomest  girl 


Hen.  (with  gallantry)  I  thought  so  until  to-day. 
Cat.  You  love  her  ? 

Hen.  Hem—yes,  certainly,  of  course— that  is,  not  precisely 
to  madness,  because  you  see  in  foreign  countries-France 
especially-one  meets  with  so  many  little  adventures  that 
make  inroads  into  one's  heart;  besides,  I  haven't  seen  and 
scarcely  thought  of  her  for  six  years  ;  Hnd-but-( coaxing. 
ly)  you'll  let  me  go  ? 

Cat.  Well  ;  I  think  I  shall  consent,  but  on  two  conditfons- 
Hen.  Name  them. 

Cat.  Presently.  They  wait  to  commence  their  repast - 
Pr0Ceed' Birs-  (To  the  Bend) 

CHORUS,-RONDO  AND  CONCERTED.  PIECE. 
Fathers  who  here  of  old  sang, 
Sons  are  we  of  the  same  gang  : 
Spite  of  the  Algauzil's  fang, 

Hammers  have  ever  since  rang 

Clang,  clang! 
Our  arms  are  strong, 

Our  hearts  are  always  light  boys. 
Our  trade  is  wrong, 
Our  gold  is  always  bright,  boys. 
Cat.  I  love  the  fervour,  the  true  hearted  fervour, 

with  which  they  sing. 
Rebol.  Gracious  Senhora,  the  table  is  ready  j 

Shall  I  now  the  chocolate  bring? 
Cat.  No,  not  just  yet. 

Hen.  Chocolate  ?  really,  the  queen  of  banditti  is  served  like  a 

king. 
Cho.  Clang,  clang;  our  arms  are  strong,  &c. 
Mugn.  I  would  ask  now  in  honor  of  her  return,  which  en- 
chants me,  that  la  Catarina  with  a  song  our  hearts  should 
delight 
Cat.  Say,  which? 

Mugn.  The  one  called  "  The  Sons  of  Night" 
SONG.— Catarina? 
Pedrillo,  poor  and  in  love,  of  the  world  quite  weary, 
One  night  stole  out  into  this  forest  dreary. 
There  he  his  steps  did  bend, 
His  life  resolved  to  end. 
When  rising,  as  from  the  earth,  these  words  fell  on  his 
ear,  "  Midnight  is  here." 
Clio.  Midnight  is  here  ; 

We  work  in  darkness,  brothers,  still,  no  fear  it : 
The  brightness  of  our  gold  doth  serve  to  clear  it. 
Cat.  Many,  no  doubt  would  frightened  have  flown. 
.      But  Pedrillo,  bold  and  brave, 
Nearer  and  nearer  fearless  advanced 
To  the  mouth  of  yon  dark  cave — 
"Ah,  rash  man,  beware  now." 
Cho.  Beware  now." 

Cat.  Know  you  what  you  dare  now." 
Who  is  it  you  hear  ? 
Ah,  sound  of  fear  f 
'Tis  the  Sons  of  the  Night. 
Cho.  ,Tis  the  Sons  of  the  Night 

Cho.  Within  the  silent  womb  of  earth,  clang,  clan", 
The  demon  dwells  who  gave  us  birth,  clang,  &c. 
And  with  his  flambeanx  clear  and  bright, 
He  hovers  round  the  Sons  of  Night. 


THE    CROWN    DIAMONDS 


Hen.  [aside]  She  looks  and  moves  like  some  blight  angel, 

While  they  seem  with  forma  of  demons  endued. 
Rebol.  [to  Cat.,  who  has  been  examining  the  casket] 

Are  you  satisfied  with  them  ? 
Cat.  Yes,  quite;  yes,  quite; 

And  the  honor  of  conquest  yours  is,  of  right. 
Hen.  Ah !  what  splendid  diamonds  ! 

The  casket  is  overflowing ;  what  treasures  immense ! 
Whence  do  they  come?    Ah  !  I  see ;  all  stolen  by  these 
Brigands,  whom  her  voice  doth  inspire  to  deeds  of  infamy. 
Oh,  horror  dire ! 
Cho.  Clang !  clang !  our  arms  are  strong,  &c. 

Rebol.  Now,  good  friends,  hearken  well ;  pay  attention,  I  pray  ; 
Fair  Catarina  is  our  queen ;  her  voice  we  all  obey. 
The  orders  have  been  given  j  our  band  they  now  pursue  : 
In  a  short  time— to-morrow,  perhaps— Even  this  day, 
Soldiers  round  the  forest  planted,  will  hence  bar  our  way. 
Our  lives  and  our  treasures  to  save  we  must  fly, 
And  seek  some  other  home  beneath  some  other  sky  ; 
Therein  peace  we  can  live  and  honestly  thrive. 
Yes,  this  day  we  must  fly. 
Mugn.  Well,  but  where? 
Rebol.  By  her  care  all's  prepared  I 
On  the  coast  a  fine  vessel  doth  lie. 
Viva  Catarina ! 
Cho.  Viva  Catarina ! 
Mugn.  Still,  the  frontiers  of  Spain 
How  shall  we  pass  or  gain 
The  frontiers? 
Rebol.  Have  ye  no  fear;  for  us,  for  our  treasures,  our  friend?, 

The  Prime  Minister  a  safe  conduct  kindly  sends. 
Hen.  That's  mine,  I  apprehend. 
Cho.  Viva  Catarina ! 
Rebol.  And  to  make  all  secure, 
Escape  to  render  sure, 
This  veiy  day  we'll  depart  hence  away. 
Cat.    Ah !  what  pleasure !  what  happiness ; 

If  these  poor  creatures  from  vice  I  save  1 
Hen.  She,  by  her  beauty,  doth  the  band  enslave. 
Rebol.  No  more  toiling ;  comfort's  all  I  crave. 
Cat.  Though  dishonest  pursuits  have  allured  them, 
They're  faithful  and  truly  brave ; 
Comforts  still  surround  them ;  that's  all  they  crave. 
Hen.  Now  by  my  passport  she  seeks  herself  to  save. 

Danger  doth  surround  them,  though  they  may  be  brave. 
Mugn.  Comfort's  all  we  crave ;  clinking  wine-cups 

I  like  better  than  clanging  hammers. 
Hen.  Senhora,  you  promised  to  set  me  at  liberty. 
Cat.  And  I  shall  keep  my  promise. 
Hen.  You  spoke  of  conditions,  what  are  they  ? 

Cat.  First,  that  for  one  entire  year  you  keep  silence  as  to 
what  you  may  have  seen  or  heard  in  this  place. 
Hen.  I  swear  it. 

Cat.  Next,  that  if  by  chance  you  should  happen  to  meet  me 
again,  you  will  not  say  or  do  ought  to  indicate  that  we  have 
ever  seen  each  other  before. 
Hen.  Be  it  as  you  wish. 

Cat.  "lis  well.  [To  Rebol.,  who  re-enters  at  this  moment] 

See  that  my  travelling  chariot  be  got  ready.  [To  Hen.]  It 

shall  take  you  as  far  as  the  next  post  town.         [Exit  Rebol. 

Hen.  Really,  senhora,  I  know  not  how  sufficiently  to  express 


my  obligations ;  I  would,  if  I  dared,   return  them  by — by  a 
word  or  two  of  good  counsel — but  I  tear — 
Cat.  Speak! 

Hen.  The  life  you  have  chosen  has,  no  doubt,  its  charms ; 
but  I— I  should  rather  have  seen  you  in  any  other,  though 
ever  so  humble. 

Cat.  [laughing  and  curtseying]  Thank  you,  Don  Henrique. 
Hen.  I  know  not  why,  but  I  feel  in  spite  of  myself  an  in- 
terest in  your  fate — your  well-doing,  although — 

Cat.  [laughing]  You  think  it  ill  becomes  a  nobleman  and  a 

man  of  honor  to  feel  aught  but  detestation  for  one  so  degraded. 

Hen.  No,  no,  indeed  ;  but  consider  well ;  our  Alguazils  have 

little  gallantry  in  their  nature ;  the  Inquisition  pays  no  respect 

to  loveliness. 

Cat.  I  know  it. 

Hen.  Why,  then,  run  the  hazard  of  such  a  fate? 
Cat.  Perhaps  I  am  obliged— perhaps  a  laudable  motive 
may— 
Hen.  What  laudable  motive  ? 
Cat.  [laughing]  That  is  my  secret. 

Hen.  Well,  I  seek  to  know  no  more;  but  if  you  should  fall 
into  the  hands  of  justice,  apply  to  me,  and— 

Cat.  [laughing]  And  you'll  do  the  state  an  injustice,  and 
save  me  if  you  can  ? 

Hen.  Yes,  at  any  hazard— but  you  alone,  you  understand ; 
for  this  desperate  band,  your  companions,  on  the  contrary,  I 
would — 

Cat.  [interrupting  him]  What,  Marquis  ?  [haughtily] 
Hen.  Hang  them  all  up  to  the  first  trees  I  came  near,  and 
this  Rebolledo  on  the  very  tallest. 
Cat.  My  uncle! 

Hen.  Your  uncle  !  are  you  sure  of  that? 
Cat.  Without  doubt. 

Hen.  I  had  feared  he  was  something  more  than  that. 
Cat.  What  matters  it  what  he  is  ? 

Hen.  Nothing ;  only  I  like  it  better  that  he  should  be  your 
uncle. 

Cat.  [laughing]  So  do  I. 

Hen.  But  tell  me,  have  you,  a  young  and  beautiful  female, 
nothing  to  fear  from  the  passions  of  the  wild  men  by  whom 
you  are  surrounded  ? 

Cat.  [with  fire  and  majesty]    Fear?    fear  them?     I,  the 

daughter  of  their  ancient  chief!   Besides,  have  I  not  this  sure 

friend  ever  at  hand  ?  [Shewing  poignard  in  her  girdle. 

Hen.  So  lovely,    eo  high  spirited!    I  would  fain   know 

whether  that  heart  has  never  yet  been  touched. 

Cat.  [with  majesty  and  severe  dignity]  Don  Henrique,  you 
are  the  first  person  who  has  ever  yet  dared  te  ask  me  that 
question. 
Hen.  And  you  fear  to  reply  to  it. 
Cat.  [after  a  pause]  Perhaps  I  do. 
Hen.  [ardently]  But  wherefore  ? 

Re-enter  Rebol. 
Rebol.    The  travelling  chariot  for  the  Marquis  is  waiting. 
Hen.  Already? 

[Rebol.  superintends  laying  out  refreshments 
Rebol.  And  here  is  the  senhora's  chocolate. 
Hen.  Upon  my  soul,  it  is  splendidly  served. 
Rebol.  [to  HeN.]  The  carriage  wa%3. 
Hen.  [testily]  Very  well,  I  hear  ydb. 
Cat.  Will  the  Marquis  do  mo  the  honor  to  partake  of  my 


^ 


THE   CROWN   DIAMONDS, 


dejeuner  before  he  departs.    A  cover  for  the  Marquis. 

[One  oft/ie  Band  lays  chocolate  cups,  SfC. 
Hen.  [eagerly]  I  shall  be  but  too  happy. 
Cat.  [smiling]  But  I  forget,  you  are  so  pressed  for  time. 
Hen.  Not  at  all,  senhora ;  not  at  all.     [Aside,  seating  him- 
self] She  is  an  enchanting  creature  \ 

DUET  AND  FINALE  TO  ACT  I. 
Of  this  tete-a-tete,  of  this  sweet  repast, 

He  must 
I  will 


never  speak  as  long  as  life  shall  last 


her  te1t)le  seate<*>  Peasant  'tis  to  view 

A  young  and  noble  senhor         ,  gallant, 
A  beauteous  young  senhora         handso 


andsome  ma'am  as  you* 
Hen.  [observing  her]  What  fire  in  those  bright  eyes  is  burning! « 
Cat.  [pouring  out  chocolate]  I  trust  it  suits  your  taste.    [Sips 
Hen.  Yes,  indeed. 

[Aside]  No  doubt  that  if  the  truth  were  known, 
'Twas  stolen  or  smuggled  from  Bayonne. 
Cat.  [offering  cakes]  Here  are  biscuits,  pray  you  try  them. 
Hen.  [aside]  What  sweet  fingers  !  none  can  outvie  them ; 
And  what  small  delicious  hands ! 
Yet  they  command  these  dark  brigands ! 
Cat.  [to  Rebol.,  who  offers  tto  change  opiate] 
.    No,  no,  I  thank  you ;  not  at  present. 
[ToHEN.f  You  eat  nothing. 
Hen.  I'm  quite  content 

[In  a  low  voice,  indicating  Rebol.] 
Tbis  uncle  seems  a  faithful  valrt. 
His  eyes  are  ever  on  you  bent. 
Cat.  [to  Rebol.]  Leave  us. 

Rebol.  [hesitating  and  looking  at  Hen.]  But — but — 
Cat.  Leave  us,  I  say ;  away.    [Exit  Rebol.] 
Cat  and  Hen.  [together]  Of  this  tete-a-tete,  &c. 
Hen.  to  Cat.,  [who  seems  to  be  looking  round  her  with  in- 
quietude] What  mean  these  unquiet  glances 
That  you  cast  this  place  around  ? 
Is  it  by  ties  of  fear  or  force 

That  to  these  bandits  you  are  bound  ? 
If  it  be  so,  I'll  break  your  chains, 
And  hazard  life  to  set  you  free. 
Cat.  Would  you,  indeed  1 
Hen.  Does  it  surprise  you  ? 
Cat.  No,  not  so ; 

'Tis  generous  and  kind. 
I  thank  you,  from  my  inmost  heart,  sir : 
But— 
Hen.  Well— 

Cat.  [hesitating]  But — [laughing] 

Your  chocolate's  finished — we  must  part,  sir. 

Adieu,  senhor,  you  now  can  leave  me  • 
I  would  not  have  you  linger  here  ; 

Your  pretty  cousin,  sure,  will  grieved  be 
If  you  do  not  soon  appear. 
Hen.  Ah  !  now  you  wish  me  gone,  I  fear  ; 
'Tis  not  yet  late,  I'll  spare  an  hour;' 
And  even  then  I  shall  have  the  power 
In  time  at  Coimbra  to  appear. 
All  the  dangers  that  surround  you, 
I  would  point  out  and  explain. 
Cat.  From  your  discourse  I  fear  more  danger, 


If  you  longer  here  remain. 


Hen.  I — I  that  all  the  world  would  give, 

Could  I  restore  your  tarnished  fame ; 
Cat.  [laughing]  Are  you  sure  you  understand,  sir, 

All  the  points  of  this,  my  game  ? 
Hen.  [surprised]  What  mean  ye  ? 

Cat.  [with  fervor]  No  matter;  for  your  kindness  I  sincerely 
thank  you. 
And  on  some  future  day  your  friendship  I  may  claim. 
Even  now,  I — [hesitating] 
Hen.  Proceed. 

Cat.  But— 

Hen.  Proceed. 

Cat.  [laughing-reprise  deduo,  as  before]  Adieu,  senhor,  <fcc. 
RECITATIVE. 
Depart— no  longer  linger  here. 
Ah,  no  ;  I've  yet  an  hour  to  spare. 
Depart. 
A  Party  of  the  Coiners  enter,  disguised  as  Monks. 

CHORUS. 
'Tis  the  good  hermit  of  the  chapel 

With  holy  fathers  from  below, 
Kneel,  brothers,  kneel,  and  Heaven's  blessing 

Pray  them  on  us  to  bestow. 
To  the  kind  monks  all  reverence  show. 
Rebol.  [to  the  Monks]  Yonder  staircase  ascend, 
By  the  hermitage  forth  issuing ; 
With  measured  step  and  slow, 
Your  eyes  on  earth  bent  low, 
Past  the  soldiers,  as  if  engaged  in  grave  devotion,  go, 
They'll  with  reverence  salute  you  ;  by  a  gesture  alone  reply ; 
Yourselves  and  your  treasures  thus  concealed  from  every 

eye, 
All  from  hence,  from  these  mountains,  in  safety  may  fly, 
Cho.  Viva,  viva,  Catarina. 
Rebol.  Silence  I 

Cho.  [as  before]  'Tis  the  good  hermit  of  the  chapel,  &c. 
Rebol.  [to  Cat.  pointing  to  the  passage.] 

We  through  the  vaults  our  steps  will  lead, 
And  to  Lisbon  thence  proceed. 
Hen.  [to  Cat.]  I  will  your  path  attend 

Till  from  this  place  you're  freed. 
Cat.  Take  no  such  trouble,  I  pray. 
Hen.  4    I  must,  indeed ! 

Rebol.  Lest  monseigneur  our  plans  derange, 
He  must  stay  here  an  hour  in  ward, 
These  holy  fathers  will  on  him  for  that  time  keep  guard, 
Hen.  Sir,  you  nought  but  acquiesence  leave  me. 
At  your  desire,  here  I'll  remain. 
But  still  I  can't  refrain  [to  Cat.] 

From  expressing  a  hope  that,  at  some  future  day, 
We  shall  meet  again. 
Cho.  March  on,  march  on  ! 
Cat.  [aside  in  a  loio  voice,  to  Hen.]  Adieu ! 
Cho.  [as  before]  'Tis  the  good  hermit,  &c. 

Monks  and  Band  commence  ascending  staircase,  6fc. 
Cat.  and  Rebol.  With  solemn  step  advancing, 
They  safely  onward  go 

To  Lisbon, 
Now  through  the  vaults  below,  &c. 
Hen.  This  piquant  adventure,  <fec. 
[The  procession  slowly  mounts  the  staircase.    Rebol.  and 
Cat.  exeunt  dy  passage.  Hen.  remains  guarded,  seated  on 
the  table,  kissing  his  hand  to  Cat. 


END  OP  FIRST  ACT. 


ACT   SECOND. 


A  RICHLY  FURNISHED  SALOON  IN  THE  CHATEAU  AT  COlMBRA. 


Enter  Don  Sebastian  and  Diana. 
Seb.  You  tell  me  to  be  calm ;  how  is  it  possible,  when  your 
father  gives  a  ball  to-night,  to  celebrate  the  signing  of  your 
marriage  contract  with  another? 

Diana.  Moderate  this  passion ;  I  have  every  ground  to  hope 
that  my  consin  does  not  love  me  any  more  than  I  love  him. 
Seb.  Indeed! 

Diana.  Yes.    For  the  last  two  days  that  he  has  been  here, 
he  has  evinced  nothing  but  listlessuess  and  melancholy. 
Seb.  Can  it  be? 

Diana.  Yes ;  and  when  my  father  asked  him  to  fix  a  day, 
i  either  this  week  or  next,  for  our  marriage— 
Seb.  He  chose  one  in  this  week. 

Diana.  No,  he  did  not;  on  some  frivolous  pretext,  he  put 
it  off  till  the  next-in  short,  I  believe  not  only  that  he  does 
not  love  me,  but  that  he  does  love  some  other. 
Seb   Ah  if  I  could  be  assured  of  that ! 
Diana.  I  have  no  doubt  of  it.    Hark,  my  father  comes,  and 
with  him  Don  Henrique. 

Enter  Campo  Mayor  and  Don  Henrique. 
Cam.  Yes,  nephew,  to-morrow  I  must  go  to  Lisbon,  where 
"my  presence  is  indispensable  at  the  coronation,  to  render  an 
account  of  our  Regency,  which,  I  flatter  myself,  I  have  drawn 
up  with  my  usual  ability  and  tact. 
Hen.  [inattentively]  'Tis  inconceivable. 
Cam.  [astonished]  What— what  is  inconceivable  ? 
Hen.  Pardon  me,  my  dear  uncle— I— I-my  thoughts  were 
wandering— I  was  thinking  of— of  a  dream. 
Cam.  A  dream  ! 

Hen.  Yes;  I  am  really  ashamed  of  myself,  but,  sleeping  or 
waking,  the  thought  still  pursues  me:-A  noble  air-eyes  su- 
perb—a poignard— a  grace— an  incomprehensible  charm— 
[recollecting  himself]  Hem!  these  are  the  very  words  of  it- 
you  understand  me  ? 

Cam.  Why,  not  exactly,  but  to  business ;  to-night  we  sign 
the  contract.  Ah,  Don  Sebastian,  so  soon  returned?  What 
news  of  your  expedition? 

Seb.  I  searched,  as  directed,  through  the  whole  chain  of 
mountains,  but  found  no  one. 

Cam.  Just  as  I  expected.  My  colleagues  insisted  that  they 
had  received  accurate  information  of  a  whole  troop  of  bandits 
and  coiners  having  taken  up  their  quarters  there ;  but  I  never 
believed  a  word  of  it. 

Seb.  My  orders  especially  indicated  the  environs  of  the 

Hermitage  of  St.  Hubert,  as  the  spot  where  they  had  fixed 

'     their  head  quarters ;  we  surrounded  the  place,  lay  in  ambus- 


cade for  a  whole  day,  and  then  beat  carefully  through  every 
yard  of  the  forest  without  seeing  a  single  person. 
Hen.  Not  one ! 

Seb.  Not  one—that  is,  except  a  procession  of  monks,  to 
which,  of  course,  I  made  the  soldiers  present  arms. 
Hen.  Did  you  really  ? 

Seb.  Certainly ;  and  all  knelt  as  they  passed,  as  is  usual,  on 
such  occasions. 

Hen.  [laughing]  All  knelt  while  they  passed !  Ha,  ha,  ha  ! 
— capital ! 

Seb.  What  are  you  laughing  at? 

Hen.  Nothing,  my  dear  friend,  nothing.  Come,  my  dear 
cousin,  this  concert— this  ball !  [  With  affected  gaiety.]  You 
and  I  are  to  sing  a  duett  together,  my  uncle  says.  Ah,  my 
dear  Diana,  if  you  did  but  know  how  much  I  loved  you  !— 
[Aside.]  By  dint  of  repeating  a  thing,  one  comes  in  time  to 
believe  it,  they  say. 

Cam.  And  see,  our  guests  arrive,  I've  invited  till  the  no- 
bility. [Music]  Attention  of  this  nature  from  the  minister 
makes  one  popular. 

Hen.  [Redt.]  'Tis  all  the  same  to  me. 
Ah !  "  The  Brigand;'"  [aside]  I  meet  one  at  every  turn ! 
[To  Diana]  Have  you  nought  else  but  tins? 
Diana.  Nought  I  like  so  well,  indeed. 
Hen.  [reading  title]  "  The  Brigand  of  the  Black  Rocks !" 
[aside]  Faith,  'tis  strange!  [To  Diana]  well,  proceed. 
NOTTURNA,  (for  two  voices). 
"  In  that  drear  defile  of  the  mountains, 
Where  the  black  rocks  their  foreheads  rear." 
[A  Courier  enters  at  this  moment  hurriedly  with  despatches, 

which  he  delivers  to  Campo  Mayor.] 
Cam.  [opening  despatches]  Despatches  from  my  noble  col- 
leagues, at  this  hour  too— Great  Heavens  ! 

Hen.  They  bring  you  some  ill  news—tidings  of  danger? 
Cam.  Not  that. 
Hen-  Of  pleasure? 

Cam.  No;  I  must  awhile  retire,  some  directions  and  orders 
to  issue.  [Going  to  the  door  of  the  cabinet. 

It  will  not  take  long— though  I'm  away, 
Proceed  with  the  concert;  go  on,  I  pray. 
[He  continues  standing  at  the  door,  reading  despatches  with 
much  apparent  interest.    Hen.  and  Diana  re-commence 

NOTTURNA. 

"  In  that  drear  defile  of  the  mountain, 
Where  the  black  rocks  their  foreheads  rear." 
Seb.  [entering  hastily]  Before  the  gates  of  the  villa 


TIIJ-]   CJlOWIi    DIAMONDS 


A  carriage  has  just  broken  down. 
Cho.  Great  Heavens ! 
Seb.  The  travellers  ask  shelter  here 

For  an  hour,  till  it  can  be  repaired 
By  some  one  from  the  neighboring  town. 
Cam.  Yes,  with  pleasure  ;  I  myself, 

But  that  business  calls  me  hence, 
Would  in  person  them  receive.  [Seb.  bows  and  exit. 
(To  Diana]  You,  my  child,  for  my  short  absence, 
I,  as  lady  mistress  leave  ; 

I  shortly  shall  return.  [Exits  into  cabinet, 

Hen.  [laughing]  Fate  seems  perversely  set 
Upon  stopping  our  duett ; — 
These  dreary  denies  of  the  mountains, 

We  try  to  travel  through  in  vain ; 
Come,  dear  coz,  once  more  attempt  it, 
Let's  begin — let's  try  again. 

[Again  commencing  Notturna. 
"  In  that  drear  defile  of  the  mountain, 

Where  the  black  rocks  their  foreheads  rear  ;" 
Pause,  young  maiden,  nor  at  evening, 
Ever  dare  to  veture  there. 
Enter  Rebol.,  carrying  the  jewel  case,  which  was  seen  in  the 
first  act,  and  Cat.  conducted  by  Seb. 
Hen.  [who perceives  her]  Oh,  Heaven!  ["big — 

[singing  confusedly]  "Pause  young  maidens,  nor  ateve- 
Nor  at  evening — " 
Diana,  [surprised — to  Hen.]  'Tisnotso! 
Hen.  [getting  more  confused]  Eh  1  no ! 
[Aside,]  It  cannot  be  !  it  is  not  she  i 
"In  the  drear  defile  ofthe  mountains — " 
Diana.  Why,  cou.-in  ! 
Hen.  "Ofthe  mountains — " 

"Defile  drear — " 
Diana;  Why,  eoz,  that's  wrong — you  surely  dream  ! 
Hen.  Eh?  no  I  don't — but  to  my  sight 
All  confusion  sure  doth  seem ! 

QUINTETTE.—  Ensemble. 
Hen.  'Tis  truly  most  surprising  to  meet  them  here! 

My  every  nerve  doth  tremble— for  her,  for  her  alone,  I  fear! 
Cat.  [to  Rebol.]  'Tis  truly  most  surprising  once  more  to 
meet  him  here  ! 
He  keeps  our  secret  safely ;  his  faith  I  do  not  fear ! 
Diana  fySed.  In  spite  of  all  bis  efforts,  he's  quite  confused, 
'tis  clear ! 
The  music  is  his  master — 'tis  that  has  caused  his  fear  I 
Cat.  [to  Diana]  I'm  ashamed  to  have  interrupted 
This  most  charming  sweet  duet ; 
You  will,  I  feel  and  trust,  continue. 
Diana.        Certainly  with  pleasure  ;  and  yet 

01  your  mishap  first  tell  me,  pray. 
Cat.    "Tis  nought;  the  danger  was  but  slight : 

The  chaise  broke  gently  down—the  worst  was  the  fright. 
With  my  Intendant  I  had  travelled  far. 
Hen.    Ah  I  monsieur  is  then  the  Intendant- 
Rebol.  Of  my  lady,  the  noble  countess — 
Cho.    Ah !  the  lady  is  a  countess — 
Rebol.  Yes,  the  Countess  Villa  Flor  ! 
Hen.      [aside]  That  is  but  one  falsehood  more  ! 
Cat.     And  I  fear  for  an  hour  I  the  1  lospitnlity  must  tax — 
Of— 


Hen.  [markedly]  The  Count  de  Campo  Mayor— 

The  Minister  of  Justice  and  Police  ! 
Cat.  and  Robot,  [aside]  Great  Heavens  ! 
Hen.  He  shortly  will  appear. 

[Aside  to  Rabol.]  And  if  you'd  die  in  peace. 

You'll  not  remain  long  bore? 
Ensemble  [as  before]. 
'Tis  truly  most  surprising,  &c. 
Diana.  Come  now,  my  wayward  cousin 

And  once  more  try  with  me —     ^ 
Cat.        [aside]  Her  cousin !  this  must  then  the  fair  Diana  be. 
Diana.  Begin  again  our  old  romance. 
Cat.      Our  pleasure  it  will  much  enhance. 
Hen  [confused]  Oh,  no,  I  really  can't — 
Diana,  Pray  why  f 

Hen.        The  music  is  too  difficult — 
Diana.  Pshaw  !  try. 

Cat.     [taking  the  music]  Dear  me,  why  really  I  thought 

That  all  the  world  thin  air  could  sing. 
Diana,  [eagerly]  Doubtless  you  can — 
Cat.  Why,  yea,  I  can  ! 

But  then  that's  quite  another  thing. 
Diana,  [eagerly  pressing  the  music  upon  her] 

Ah,  do  not  you  decline,  because  he  has  refused  ; 
'Tis  the  sole  return,  I  ask,  [playfully]  'tis  the  price 

that  you  must  pay, 
For  your  shelter  here  to-night ;  oh,  now  you  can't  say 
nay. 
Rebol.  [aside  to  Cat.]  But,  madame. 

lien,      [aside]  She  consents !  gracious  power.-;!  what  auda- 
city! 

My  uncte  in  that  room  ; 
And  death  her  certain  doom  ! 
This  passes  all  I  ever  saw; 
What  self-possession — what  sang-froid ! 
CAVATINA  AND  VARIATIONS— Catauina. 
"  I'll  asunder  rend  Love's  chains;" 
So  said  the  young  Prince  John  : 
"  Yes,  thou  causest  too  much  pain  -f 

So,  Love,  get  hence,  begone !" 
Thus  adjured,  away  young  Cupid  new ; 
The  prince  conceived  him  lost  to  view — 
But  'twas  to  barb  his  darts  anew  ! 
First  Variation. 
Back  smiling, 
Came  Cupid, 
An  arrow  forth  he  drew ; 
His  bow  bending, 
His  aim  mending, 
This  time  he  shot  him  through  and  through  ! 
There  the  fatal  shaft  stuck  quivering — 
"  Now,"  said  Cupid,  "  to  Love  he'll  be  true." 
Hen.  [aside  to  Cat.]  Have  a  care !  that's  enough ;  ah !  I 
fear. 
My  uncle,  if  he  comes — ah,  give  o'er! 
Cat.  [to  Hen.]  'Tis  not  an  hour  for  care; 
Pshaw !  calm  your  idle  fear- 
Go  hence,  and  hear  no  more 
Your  uncle  is  not  here ; 
And  even  if  he  were. 


10 


THE    CROWN    DIAMONDS. 


Why,  he'd  cry  out  "Encore!" 
Tm  la,  la !— La,  la,  la  !  &c. 

Cho.  Ah !  thank?,  dear  lady,  we  ne'er  heard 
So  fine  a  voice  before  ! 

Tra,  la,  la  !— La,  la,  la !  &c. 

All.  Charming!  delicious! 

Hen.  [aside]  She  receives  her  compliments  with  a  coolness 
hat  IB  astoiiisni!,^. 

Diana.  The  hail  will  soon  commence  in  ths  saloons.  Mean- 
time ladies,  you  will  here  find  some  engravings  and  books, 
whicn  may  serve  to  pass  a  few  minutes  away.  Don  Sebastian 
I  am  sure  you  will  be  proud  to  offer  that  cavalier  [indicating 
to  Rebol]  a  hand  at  Ecarte. 

[Seb.  bows  and  sits  down  to  play  with  Rebol,] 

Hen.  [aside]  He'll  be  duped  to  a  certainty  !  even  if  he  wins, 
the  rascal  will  pay  him  with  forged  money,  and  I  have  not 
power  to  interfere — no  matter — I'll  keep  a  sharp  eye  on  him, 
at  all  events 

Diana,  [having  taken  up  a  Gazette]  Ah,  ladies,  here  in  the 
Estramadura  Gazette  is  an  account  of  a  most  curious  adven- 
ture among  some  robbers. 

Ladies.  Robbers  !  do  let  us  hear. 

Hen.  [aside]  What  can  this  mean  ? 

Diana,  [reading]  A  man  named  Pedro,  a  servant  to  some 
one,  whose  name  however  they  do  not  give — 

Hen.  [aside]  Mine,  as  I  live. 

Diana.  Separated  from  his  master  in  the  mountains  du- 
ring a  storm,  he  found  his  way,  by  chance,  into  a  cavern  full 
of  Brigands,  near  the  Hermitage  of  St.  Hubert — 

Seb.  St.  Hubert !  brigands  there  !  it  is  impossible  ! 

Rebol.  Why,  so  ?  brigands  are  frequently  in  that  quarter, 
I'm  told. 

Seb.  Not  at  present;  I  hunted  for  two  whole  days,  and 
found  none. 

Rebol.  [taking  money,  as  having  won  a  game]  You  missed 
one  point,  and  in  consequence  lost  the  game,  senhor.   [smiling. 

Hen.  [markedly]  Indeed  !  he  had  all  the  cards  at  one  time 
hi  his  hands  ! 

Cat.  [to  Hen.  markedly]  Senhor  Cavalier,  have  a  care  ! 

Hen.  Heavens  ! 

Cat.  You  trod  upon  my  dress. 

Hen.  Pardon  me,  senhora,  I  will  be  more  careful  for  the 
future. 

Cat.  [coldly]  I  hope  so.     Well,  madame?     [to  Diana. 

Diana.  Well,  in  the  interior  of  the  cavern  he  saw  a  band  of 
brigands,  and  counted,  rta  he  says,  nearly  four  thousand. 

Rebol.  That  is  a  great  mistake — [recollecting  himself,  and 
taking  up  a  card] — pardon  Dje,  1  intended  to  have  played  thus. 
[putting  down  another. 

Diana.  But  that  is  nothing ;  the  romance  of  the  business 
has  yet  to  be  told.  Now,  I'll  raise  your  curiosity  to  the  highest 
pitch.     Who  do  you  think  the  chief  of  these  brigands  was  ? 

Seb.  Some  contrabandist,  escaped  from  the  gallies. 

Diana,  No,  not  at  all.     [To  Cat]  Can  you  guess  ? 
Cat.  I  really  can't  imagine. 

Diana.  Well,  ladies,  it  wws  a  woman. 

Ladies.  A  woman. 

Diana.  A  young  and  beautiful  woman. 
Cat.  Ab4  travellers  always  exagerate  —  what  think  you, 
Marquis ? 

Hen.  [confused]  Think— think,    that   it   is  not    probable. 


though  probably,  not  improbable  ! 

Seb.  'Tis  impossible  ? 

Diana.  But  Pedro  saw  her  himself—  and  in  proof,  he  has 
given  a  most  exact  description  of  her — here  it  is. 

Hen.  [aside]  Heavens!  Give  it  tome,  cousin  ;  give  it  to  me. 

Diana.  No ;   I  must  hand  it  to  my  father. 

Hen.  But  lie  is  engaged  in  his  cabinet. 

Diana.  No  matter ;  I  can  take  it  to  him,  and  do  myself  the 
pleasure  of  presenting  the  senhora  at  the  same  time. 

Cat.  [aside]  Merciful  Heavens  !  [To  Diana]  Pardon  me, 
but  this  travelling  dress-1- 

Diana.  Oh!  that's  nothing?     Prelude  to  Saraband  heard. 

Seb.  A  saraband  ! — the  ball  is  about  to  commence. 

All.  The  ball  !  the  ball !     Come,  senhora. 

Diana.  I'm  coming,  ladies — I'm  coming.  Let  me  see — I 
was  engaged  to  dance  with  somebody.     [Looking  round. 

Hen.  [embarrassed]  Was  it  by  me? 

Diana.  Hem  !  No,  I  rather  think  not. 

Hen.  [aside]  So  do  I.  [To  Seb.  quickly]  Say  it  was  by 
you. 

Seb.  [astonished]  But  why  ? 

Hen.  No  matter— say  so. 

Seb.  [quickly  to  DianaJ  'Twas  by  me,  senhora ;  'twas  by 
me. 

Diana,  [astonished]  Ah,  yes!  I  recollect.  I  beg  your  par- 
don, for  having  forgotten  it— come,  then.  [Seb.  takes  her  hand] 
Now,  ladies,  follow  me.     [Exeunt  all  but  Hen.  and  Cat. 

Hen.  [to  Cat.]  Still  here  !  why  do  you  not  depart  1 

Cat.  Time  does  not  press  ;  besides,  I  must  wait  till  my  car- 
riage is  repaired. 

Hen.  Know  you  the  dangers  that  menace  you  ? 

Cat.  [laughing]  Yes;  but  where  can  a  per  son  be  more  safe 
than  in  the  house  of  the  Minister  of  Police  ? 

Hen.  Why  have  you  not  departed  with  your  companions  ? 
I  am  told  they  left  the  country  some  days  since. 

Cat.  That  is  hardly  a  gallant  question  ;  perhaps  I  have  been 
kept  by  matters  of  importance. 

Hen.  Some  new  ^system  of  deception.  This  Rebolledo, 
whom  you  told  me  was  your  uncle,  who  now  passes  as  your 
Intendant — 

Cat.  Why  not?  he  may  be  both  the  one  and  the  other. 

Hen.  Or  he  may  be  neither. 
Cat.  'Tis  possible. 

Hen.  What  is  he  then,  your  lover,  your  husband  ? 

Cat.  [smiling]  Which  would  you  prefer  that  he  should  be  ? 

Hen.  Ah  !  if  I  were  certain  that  he  were  either — I  would — 
I  would  deliver  you  both  up  to  justice  ! 
Cat.  [coldly]  No,  you  would  not. 

Hen.  What  would  prevent  me  ? 

Cat.  Your  promise— your  pledged  word — I  am  quite  tran- 
quil on  that  point. 

Hen.  Tranquil ! — in  this  peril ! — when  I — I,  who  am  nothing 
to  3- ou— though  unfortunately  your  confidant  and  accom- 
plice—tremble for  the  danger  in  which  you  stand  !— for  while 
you  remain,  every  fibre  of  my  frame  is  benumbed— absorbed 
in  terror  for  your  fate  !  Were  it  not  a  profanation  to  the  name 
I  would  almost  think  I  loved  you. 

Cat.  [with  a  cold  smile]  I  could  almost  think  so  too. 
Hen.  No,  no,  it  cannot  be— go,  go— hence  I  say. 
Cat.  You  are  right.    Don  Henrique  de  Sandoval  could  never 
with  honor  bestow  a  thought  on  me— when,  this  night,  he  is 


THE    CROWN   DIAMONDS 


11 


about  to  sign  a  contract  of  marriage  with  a  lady  of  high  birth, 
who  loves  and  is  beloved  by  him. 

Hen.  No,  no,  I  lovelier  not — I  never  loved  her !  Hear  me, 
Catarina.  We  are  alone  !  If  you  consent,  we  will  iiy  to  Lis- 
bon— to  France — to  Germany,  together.  We  will  forget  the 
past — m y-  existence,  my  love,  shall  be  dedicated  to  you,  hence- 
forth, and  for  ever  I 

Cat^  I !  your  mistress  ! 

Hen.  I  wouid  rescue  you  from  the  misery — from  the  pun- 
ishment that  awaits  you  !     You  smile — 

Cat.  At  your  mode  of  teacliing  virtue,  senhor — that  is  all ! 
I  could  never  become  aught  but  wife  to  the  man  I  loved,  were 
he  the  noblest  in  Christendom. 

Hen.  Wife  !  my  wife  ! 

Cat.  [proudly]  No,  not  your  wife,  sir  ;  for  most  probably  I 
should  refuse  you. 

Hen.  Refuse  me  ! 

Cat.  [with  feeling]  For  your  own  sake,  Don  Henriquo — 
for  your  own  sake  ;  you  merit  a  better  bride  than  Catarina, 
die  Bohemian.  I  pray  yuu  receive  this  ring  as  a  token — ;i 
remembrance  of  ine — of  one — who  could  have  loved  you,  Lad 
she  dared ! 

Hen.  Give  it  me. 

Cat.  But  perhaps  your  cousin  will  be  offended  ! 

Hen.  No,  no — this  marriage  is  more  than  ever  impossible ! 
— 1  will  tell  her  so.  Give  it  me!  [She  put*  the  ring  oh  his 
finger  as  Diana  appears  at  the  back.]  Heaven  !  she  is  here. 

Diana.  Pardon  me,  senhora,  for  having  left  you  so  long, 
but  I  have  been  dancing,  and  hope  that  you  will  follow  my 
example — in  my  room  you  will  find  the  proper  dresses. 

Hen.  Impossible,  my  dear  cousin — the  countess  has  just  in- 
formed me  that  she  must  depart  instantly. 

Diana.  A  messenger  has  just  arrived  from  the  village,  to 
say  that  the  carriage  cannot  possibly  be  repaired  till  to-morrow 
morning. 

Cat.  Indeed — well  then,  I  must  necessarily  resign  myself  to 
my  late. 

Diana.  And. dance?     [Symphony  of  Duet  commences  here. 

Cat.  And  dance  ! 

Hen.   [aside  to  Cat.]  For  Heaven's  sake  recollect. 

Cat.  I  accept  your  land  offer.  Adieu,  Marquis  ;  we  shall,  I 
presume,  shortly  meet  again.     [Exit  Catabina. 

Diana.  Do  you  know  my  gallant  cousin  !  I  do  not  think  it 
quite  fair,  but  during  the  whole  of  this  evening  you  have  never 
once  said  "Diana,  dear,"  will  you  dance  with  me  ? 

Hen.  Do  you  know  that  I  have  been  dying  to  ask  you  the 
whole  evening,  but  you  were  surrounded  by  so  many  gay  ad- 
mirers I  found  it  impossible  to  get  near  you — but  now  that 
we  are  alone,  as  you  say,  "Diana,  dear,"  will  you  dance  with 
me? 

Diana.  There's  my  hand. 

Hen.  I  receive  it  with  rapture. 

Diana.  I  shall  never  be  able  to  break  my  mind  to  him. 

Hen.  Why  should  I  withhold  this  truth  ? 

Hen.     } 
and      >  Dear  cousin. 

Diana.  > 

Diana.  Did  you  speak  ? 

Hen.  No — did  you  ? 

Diana.  No. 

Han.  Oh  !  how  shall  I  begin  ?  Diana,  couein,  are  you  very 
fond  of  danoing  ? 


Diana.  Not  very. 

Hen.  Nor  I — besides,  I  have  something  to  say  to  you. 

Diana.  How  very  odd;  for  do  you  know,  cousin,  1  have 
something  to  say  to  you. 

Hen.  You  have  t  I'm  all  attention — sit  down,  cousin — I'll 
listen  to  you  for  a  week.     [  They  sit. 

Diana.  Now  you  commence  first. 

Hen.  Must  I?  Well  then,  cousin,  I  have  been  thinking 
that— 

Diana.  Yes — go  on — go  on. 

Hen  I  have  been  thinking  that— is  a  very  pretty  little  foot 
of  yours. 

Diana   Don't  be  foolish,  cousin. 

Hen.  Cousin,  I  adore  you. 

Diana.  Oh,  dear — I  shall  faint. 
.  Hen   But  still  you  will  recoliect  that  we  are  both  free — and 
n,; —  o —  [CAMro  Mayor  speaks  without 

Hen.  My  uncle  ! 
Diana.  This  is  most  provoking ! 

But  one  instant  more,  and  all  explained  would  be  ! 
Ensemble  [as  before]  Tell  me,  my  wayward  heart,  «fcc. 
Enter  Campo  Mayoh. 

Cam.  At  last,  Heaven  be  praised t  the  couriers  are  des- 
patched in  all  directions,  and  I  am  at  liberty  for  the  rest  of 
the  night. 

Hen.  The  despatches  which  you  received  were,  I  presume, 
of  importance  ? 

Cam.  More  than  I  can  tell.  Would  you  believe,  that  my 
colleagues  in  the  ministry  have  written  to  me  to  say,  that  the 
whole  of  the  crown  diamonds  have  been  stolen  from  the 
queen's  own  private  apartments  > 

Hen.  Is  it  possible  i 

Diana.  And  who  is  supposed  to  have  done  It  ? 

Cam.  No  one  can  form  an  idea.  But  the  parties,  whoever 
they  are,  cannot  yet  have  quitted  the  kingdom.  '  I  have  ordered 
a  surveillance  on  every  road,  and  at  every  post  house,  and  for- 
bidden that  a  single  horse  shall  be  furnished,  or  a  carnage 
allowed  to  pass,  except  my  own. 

Hen.  [warmly  sliaking  hands  with  him]  My  dear  uncle,  dis- 
pose of  my  time  and  services  in  this  matter  as  you  please  ;  I 
shall  be  but  too  happy  to  give  you  all  the  aid  in  my  power. 

Cam.  [seeing  the  ring  on  his  finger]  Oh!  what  in  the  name 
of  mystery  is  this  ? 

Hen.  [carelessly]  Notliing  !  a  thing  of  no  value. 

Cam.  No  value,  say  you?  Why,  why,  'tis  the  celebrated 
Brazilian  itself! 

Hen.  What  say  you  ? 

Cam.  One  of  the  principal  crown  jewels !  How  cume  it'iu 
your  possession  ? 

Hen.  Really,  I  scarcely  know.     I — I  bought  it. 

Cam.  Of  whom  !  He  must  have  been  concerned  in  the  rob- 
bery !    Whom  did  you  buy  it  of? 

Hen.  Of- — of — a  tradesman  in  Coimbra. 

Cam.  His  name  ? 

Hen.  One— one — Diego  Wontez — a  jeweller. 

Cam.  He  must  be  arrested  immediately. 

Hen.  But,  uncle,  I  know  him  to  be  a  very  respectable  man. 

Cam.  No  matter  ;  if  he  is  not  one  of  the  robbers  himself,  he 
may  know  something  of  the  band. 

Diana.  The  band  !  Perhaps  'tis  that  cf  Catarina,  chief  of 
the  bandits  of  Estramadura  ! 


IS 


THE    GROWN    DIAMONDS. 


Cam.  Nothing  more  likely. 

Diana.  See,  father,  here  is  the  last  Gazette,  which  arrived 
only  this  afternoon,  containing  a  full  account  of  them,  and 
giving  a  particular  description  of  her. 

Cam,  I'll  look  at  it  presently  ;  meantime  [seats  himself  and 
writes]  put  it  on  my  tahle  in  my  cabinet 
Diana.  I'll  read  it  to  you. 

Hen.  My  uncle  has  not  time  to  hear  it  now  ;  you  confuse 
him. 

Diana.  Not  at  all — (reads) — "  Catarina  ie  a  very  beautiful 
person — light  hair — blue  eyes"— 

Cam.  [writing — stops,  confused]  Diego  Montez  has  blue 
eyes! 

Diana,  [reading]  "  La  Catarina  ie — " 

Hen.  Do  listen  to  your  father ;  he  speaks  to  you. 

Cam.  [still  writing]  You  will  take  care  to  give  particular 
orders  that  my  carriage  is  got  ready,  the  horses  put  to,  and 
everything  prepared  to  start  the  moment  the  contract  is  sign- 
ed. 

Diana.  Yep,  father. 

Cam.  [rising,  and  folding  tip  paper  quickly]  To-morrow 
morning  early,  we  must  be  in  Lisbon. 

Diana.  Merciful  heavens  ! — what  a  resemblance  1  Can  it  j 
be  possible  ? 

Hen.  Come,  uncle,  come  ;  I  will  keep  close  at  your  side  ;  j 
we'll  dispatch  an  alguazil  with  this,  and  give  the  other  neces-  j 
sary  orders  ;  not  a  moment  is  to  be  lost 

Cam.  You  are  right ;  every  minute'  now  is  worth  an  hour. 
[Cam.  exits  hastily  with  Hen. 

Diana.  Yes,  yes — it  must  be  she  !— here,  here,  in  this  house 
— we  are  not  safe — no  one  is  safe — help,  help ! 

[Re-enter  Hen.  hastily.] 

Hen.  Silence  !  [At  this  moment  Cat.  enters  at  back;  she  is 
not  seen  by  Diana  or  Hen.] 

Diana.  You  don't  know  that  this  Catarina,  this  terrible 
woman,  is  here  in  the  house. 

Hen.  Nonsense ! 

Diana.  But  this  paper  proves  it. 

lien,  [snatching  it  from  her,  and  tearing  it]  It  can  prove 
nothing  now. 

Diana.  But  you  have  destroyed  the,  only  means  of  recog- 
nizing her. 

Hen.  Say  not  one  word  of  this  further  to  a  living  soul  I 
conjure — I  implore  you. 

Diana.  How!  perhaps  you  love  her 't 

Hen.  I  do !  I  do  I 

Diana,  [hiding  her  face  in  her  hands]  Ah  !  you  do  ? 

Hen.  Dear  Diana,  aid  me  in  saving  her— -in  contriving  her 
flight  from  hence.     You  will  ?    Speak ! 

Diana,  [trembling]  Well,  yes,  cousin,  on  one  condition. 

Hen.  Any,  any  you  choose. 

Diana.  Nay,  nay,  'tis  not  so  much.  'Tis  but  that,  this  night, 
on  being  called  on  to  sign  the  contract,  'tis  you  who  will  re- 
fuse. 

Hen.  I  promise. 

Diana.  .Before  my  father — before  the  notary  ? 

Hen.  Before  the  whole  world  !  but  'ris  you  must  save  her. 

Diana.  How? 

Hen.  She  must  depait  this  instant;  and  her  chaise  is  bro- 
ken. 

Diana.  That  matters  little,  as  every  -conveyance  will  be 
stopped  on  the  road  except  the  Ministers. 

Hen*  Then  she  must  take  the  Minister's. 


Diana.  My  father's? 

Hen.  Yes !  he  charged  you  to  give  orders  for  its  being  in 
readiness.  Do  so  ;  but  mind,  'tis  to  be  in  waiting  for  her — 
forAer.'  You  understand  the  object.  If  you  say  no,  I  sign 
the  contract,  and  marry  you  / 

Diana,  [quickly]  All  shall  be  ready,  my  dear  cousin — all 

shall  be  just  as  you  wish. 

Hen.  So  far,  so  well !     Where  can  she  wait  till  it  is  ready  ? 

Diana.  There,  in   my  father's  private  cabinet,  where   no 

person  will  dare  enter.     There  is  another  door  opens  on  a 

back  staircase,  leading  down  to  the  court-yard 

Hen.  Excellent !  Poor,  poor  girl !  we  shall  save  her,  at  all 
events. 

Diana.  Poor  girl,  say  you?  Poor  girl!  a  woman  so  de- 
graded— so  lost  to  every  feeling  of  her  sex — and — 

[iS7te  sees  Catarina,  and  exits  ltustily.    Enter  Catakina. 
Hen.  You  here !  as  a  spy  !  I  did  not  expect  this. 
Cfit.  I  have  heard  all. 

Hen.  Go  into  that  cabinet.  By  a  secret  door  you  can  reach 
a  back  staircase ;  descend  into  the  court-yard,  where  a  car- 
riage will  be  in  waiting  for  you— ^or  you  and  your  intendant. 
Well  do  you  not  hear  me?  Catarina!  Catarina!  why  do 
you  not  go  ?  Why  do  you  not  answer  me  ?  [tenderly]  What 
are  you  thinking  of? 

Cat.  Of  you !  I  was  thinking  whether  it  really  was  for  me 
that  you  had  refused  to  sign  this  contract. 

[Music  and  symphony  to  finale  commence.     Cam. 
heard  without. 
Hen.  My  uncle  comes !     Away,  for  your  life  !  for  your  own 
sake,  away  I     [She  remains  motionless,  looking  at  him]    Well, 
well,  for  my — for  my  sake  ! 

Cat.  [with  much  emotion]  I  go — I  obey  you. 
Enter  Cajipo  Matob,  Lords,  Ladies,  Chorus,  &c. 
FINALE  TO  ACT  11. 
Cam.  Yes,  this  night  I  depart.     I  have  ordered  my  car- 
riage to  Lisbon.     I  am  called  by  affairs  of  the  State;  but  ere 
I  go,  will  execute  this  contract  of  marriage ;  and  we   musf 
ch  it,  or  I  shall  betoolate. 
Seb.  Sign  the    contract !     Hope,    farewell !     Here  comes 
the  notary. 

Diana.  'Tis  false. 

Cam.  A  most  impudent  lie. 

Valets.     She  and  her  companion  entered  it  together; 

She  left  her  name  as  olf  she  did  fly. 
Cam.        I'm  in  a  perfect  flame  ! 

Pray,  what  may  be  her  name  ? 
Valets.  La  Catarina ! 

All.  [in  consternation]  La  Catarina. 

Cam,  The  chief  of  the  bandits  !     Was  ever  such  audacity  ! 
Even  with  a  price  lixed  on  her  head, 
To  take  away  my  carriage,  and  drive  off  at  her  ease  ! 
Valets.  A  large  jewel  case  she  carried. 
Cam         Oh,  great  heaven,  I  freeze  ! 
Hen.  [aside]  He  is  right  in  his  suspicions. 
Cam.  Away  !  follow  all !  a  price  is  on  her  head  ! 

Five  thousand  crowns  to  him  who  takes  her,  alive  or 

dead 
I  surely  shall  go  mad.  What  on  earth  can  thi?  portend? 
That  she  dare 
Here  appear ! 
Now  all  must  assistance  lend. 

[Ensemble  as  before.] 
He's  surely  lost  his  senses,  <fcc. 


END  OF  SECOND  ACT. 


ACT    THIRD 


A  SUPERB  SALOON  IN  THE  QUEEN'S  PALACE  AT  LISBON. 


? 


[At  the  back  the  Throne-Room,  separated  from  the  Saloon  by  a 

Colonade,  behind  the  columns  of  which  are  drawn  curtains 

of  rich  velvet,  forming  the  entrance. 
Enter  Campo  Mayor,  with  Diana  on  his  arm,  followed  by 
Henrique  and  Sebastian. 

Cam.  [as  he  enters]  Well,  well,  nephew,  what  is  done  can't 
well  be  undone  ;  and,  as  it  seems,  that  if  you  had  not  refused 
Diana,  she  would  have  refused  you,  I  will  say  no  more  on 
this  subject,  except  that,  though  I  don't  entirely  disapprove  of 
Don  Sebastian's  attentions,  there  are  still  many  things  to  be 
considered.  He  is  of  a  highly  honorable  family  I  know ;  but 
as  yet  he  has  little  money — scarcely  any  rank  in  the  army  ; 
and,  in  short,  things  must  stand  over  for  a  while — you  may 
bill  and  coo  a  little  now  and  then;  and  I'll  consider  of  it. 

Diana.  Thanks,  my  father. 

Seb.  I  hear  that  the  government  finances  are  in  a  worse 
condition  even  than  mine,  Count. 

Cam.  Veiy  true  ;  there  is  not  a  com  in  the  treasury.  The 
pay  of  the  army  is  two  years  in  arrear.  The  Crown  Dia- 
monds have  never  been  recovered.  Heaven  know  where  it 
will  all  end; 

Hen.  By  the  bye,  uncle,  has  anything  been  since  heard  of 
La  Catarina  ? 

Cam.  Heard  !  her  audacity  is  beyond  comprehension  !  Fig- 
ure to  yourself  now ; — When  I  arrived  in  Lisbon,  I  found 
my  carriage  left  in  my  own  court-yard  where,  it  appears,  she 
had  the  impertinence  to  alight,  and  a  polite  message  to  the 
effect  that  she  was  the  more  obliged  to  me  for  the  use  oi  it,  as 
it  was  much  more  comfortable  than  her  own  !  She  is  still 
somewhere  concealed  in  Lisbon,  they  say. 

Enter  a  Gentleman  U.sher  of  the  Chamber. 

Usher,  [announcing-]  His  Excellency  the  Count  Antonio 
los  Morillas  di  Fuentis  ! 

Enter  Rebol,  richly  dressed;  stars,  orders,  tyc.,  on  his  breast. 
[Exeunt  Diana,  Hen..  Seb.,  and  Cam. 

Usher.  Her  Majesty  will  shortly  receive  ths  Count  Fuentes 
in  this  apartment.  [Exit. 

Rebol.  [solus]  The  Queen  coming  here  !  Well,  I  mustn't 
be  cast  down,  though  I  never  did  see  a  Queen  or  a  King  ei- 
ther, before.  That  handsome  maid  of  honor  of  hers,  whom 
she  sent  to  personate  my  niece,  Catarina,  and  watch  over  our 
honesty,  while  we  were  imitating  the  Crown  Diamonds,  was 
a  high  sort  of  person;  and  as  servants  generally  give  them- 
selves ten  time*  the  airs  of  their  masters  and  mistresses,  I  dare 


say  there  won't  be  so  much  difference,  after  all.  'Twas  a 
noble  thought — worthy  of  a  Queen — and  right  well  it  has  suc- 
ceeded !  The  real  jewels  are  by  this  time  in  the  hands  of 
three  of  the  richest  merchants  in  Europe,  who  have  pledged 
themselves  to  profound  secrecy,  and  promised  to  advance  on 
them  the  necessary  sums  to  rescue  the  government  from  its 
pecuniary  difficulties  ;  while  the  false  jewels,  which  we  have 
made  and  set,  she  will  wear  at  the  coronation,  and  nobody  be 
one  bit  the  wiser.     Ah  !  some  one  comes.     [Re-enter  Usher. 

Usher.  The  Queen.  [Exit. 

Enter  the  Queen  attired  in  white;  advances  toward  Rebol. 

who  kneels,  and  without  lookmgup,  kisses  the  hem  of  her  dress. 

Queen,  [with  dignity]  Rise,  Rebolledo. 

Rebol.  [looks  up  and  rises  brusquely]  Ah  !  only  the  maid 
of  honor,  after  alL  What  a  fool  I  was,  not  to  take  a  look  first; 
I  should  have  kissed  her  hand,  at  least. 

Queen,  [smiling]  I  am  the  Queen,  Rebolledo. 

Rebol.  The  Queen  !  [kneels  again.] 

Queen.  La  Catarina — thy  niece. 

Rebol.  All,  Madam,  it  is  too  much  honor  for  the  family;  we 
never  deserved  it. 

Queen.  You  have  served  me  with  zeal,  fidelity,  and  discre- 
tion ;  this  has  more  than  expiated  your  former  faults. 

Rebol.  Well,  they  were  whoppers,  certainly;  here,  madam, 
is  an  exact  list  of  your  Majesty's  treasures ;  all  the  diamonds 
you  committed  to  my  care  have  been  successfully  counterfeit- 
ed— the  false  re-set  in  your  crown,  and  the  real  placed  in  the 
hands  of  merchants,  whose  acknowledgments  I  now  present 
you,  with  authority  to  draw  on  them  for  whatever  sums  you 
may  require,  to  the  amount  of  six  million  dollars. 

[Gives  papers. 

Queen,  Thanks,  Rebolledo.  Retire  now;  we  shall  shortly 
meet  again. 

Rebol.  I  wait  your  Majesty's  pleasure.  [Exit. 

Queen  [solus]  The  time  at  last  is  come,  then,  when  I  must 
choose  a  partner  of  my  throne  and  heart.  My  heart  !  ah!  my 
sage  counsellors  little  know  of  the  heart  of  Catarina ! 

[Enter  Campo  Mayor. 

Queen.  Who  is  there  ? 

Cam.  I  have  the  honor  to  bring  to  your  Majesty  the  decision 
of  the  Council  of  Regency  on  the  subject  oi  your  marriage. 

Queen.  'Tis  well !  speak  I 

(.'am,  The  choice  of  the  Council  has  been  fixed  on  the 
young  Prince  Ferdinand,  of  Spain  ;  and  you  are  aware  that 


14 


THE    CROWN    DIAMONDS 


before  your  majesty's  coronation,  it  is  necessary  that  choice 
should  have  your  formal  and  written  approval . 

Queen.  I  know  it.  [sits  at  table  and  tcrites]  I  wish  mysel 
to  propose  a  slight  condition. 

Cam.  With  most  profound  pleasure. 

Queen,  [giving  him  paper  which  she  has  written]  There  it  is! 

Cam.  [reads]  "The  Council  of  Regency  leafe  the  Queen 
absolute  mistress  and  sole  arbiter  in  her  choice  of  a  husband.'. 
[aside]  What  is  to  become  of  my  engagement  with  the  Court 
of  Spain  !  [to  her,  embarrassed]  Certainly,  gracious  Sovereign 

we — that  is,  I  and  my  colleagues,  would  be  most  happy — 

but  the  will  of  your  royal  father — above  all,   the  laws  and 
usages  of  the  kingdom. 

Queen.  If  they  are  put  in  force,  I  will  to-morrow  confiscate 
all  the  estates  of  your  colleagues,  through  whose  neglect  the 
Crown  Diamonds  have  been  lost  or  stolen. 

Cam.  [quickly]  And  your  Majesty  will  do  very  right  in- 
deed ;  these  treasures  were  left  in  Lisbon,  confided  to  their 
especial  care,  in  virtue  of  their  office  ;  and  they  are,  and  must 
be  responsible ;  but  I,  absent  as  I  was  on  your  service — I 
can't  be  considered  culpable. 

Queen.  Not  culpable  !  Have  you  not  received  In  your  own 
chateau,  la  Catarina  ? 

Cam.  [aside]  Who  in  the  name  of  all  the  devils  told  her 
that  ?  [to  her]  I  was  not  aware  of  it 

Queen.  Did  you  not  arrange  her  departure?  did  she  not 
go  away  in  your  carriage  ? 

Cam.  I  was  not  aware  of  it. 

Queen.  Your  daughter  and  nephew,  at  all  events,  were  in 
the  plot !  and  I  here  give  you  an  order,  under  my  own  hand, 
for  their  immediate  arrest. 

Cam.  [while  she  is  writing]  My  nephew  !  that  is  possibl  e 
I  don't  say  no;  especially  when  I  recollect — hem — the  Bra- 
zilian— [looking  at  the  ring  which  she  has  on  her  finger. 
The  Queen  gives  him  the  order]  But  my  daughter,  gracious 
madam — she  had  nothing  to  do  with  the  affair.  I'll  answer 
for  her  with  my  life,  if  necessary.     Ah,  she  is  here. 

Queen,  [aside — agitated]  Oh,  heaven  !  Diana  here  1 

[Enter  Diana. 

Cam.  [taking  Diana's  hand]  The  Duchess  de  Pombal  had 
undertaken  to  present  her  to  your  majesty  ;  but  I  will  now 
have  the  honor  of  doing  so  myself. 

Queen,  [aside]  How  shall  I  act  ?  If  she  recognizes  me,  all 
is  lost.  [She  sits  at  the  table  and  writes. 

DUETT. 

For  thee  and  thy  father 

Thou  yet  hope  may's  cherish, 

Silence  still  maintain ; 

And  thus  my  favor  gain. 
[Aside.]      He  is  wise  and  sage 

But  fears  my  rage.  [  retain. 

Courage,  couarge:  and  I  my  advantage  may 
Diana.        For  me  and  my  father 

I  yet  hope  will  cherish, 

I  silence  will  maintain 

And  thus  my  point  shall  gain. 

In  her  face  a  smile  I  see 

No  ill  it  bodes  to  him  or  ine ; 

Ah,  we  shall  once  more  happy  be, 
And  honor  still  retain. 


Cam.  What  angry  glances  ! 

I  shiver  with  terror  ! 
Her  effots  much  I  fear  are  vain. 
On  that  face  a  frown  I  see, 
No  good  it  bodes  to  her  or  me, 
And  we  shall  no  doubt  ruined  be, 
And  in  disgrace  remain. 
Qneen.  [to  Cam.]  Whatever  reasons  you  may  have  for  thus 

my  wish  gainsaying 
As  your  Sovereign  I  insist — as  your  Queen  I  require, 
That  you  and  your  colleagues  each  and  all  sign  this  paper — 

That  is — if  pardon  you  desire. 
Cam.  [taking  a  paper]  We  will  act  as  you  require. 
Queen,  [aside  to  Diana]  You— if  you  my  favor  seek, 
Be  most  cautious — net  a  word 
To  your  father  or  cousin  dare  to  speak. 
Diana.       Not  to  my  cousin  1 
Queen.       No,  not  to  him  ! 

And  on  these  terms  1  will  award 
Your  hand  unto  young  Don  Sebastian, 
And  name  him  Colonel  of  my  Guard  ! 
But  be  careful,  not  a  word. 
Diana.        Ever  from  me  shall  be  heard, 
Reprise  d' Ensemble. 
For  thee  and  thy  father,  &c. 

[ End  of  trio,  Cam.  Exits. 
Queen,  [a*  if  about  to  go — to  Diana,  Speaking]  Forget  not 
my  commands  and  caution. 

Diana,  [curtsies]  I  shall  not,  madame  [sees  Hen.]  Powers 
of  mercy ! 

Enter  Don  Henrique  hastily — lie  sees  the  Queen,  who  is 
about  to  leave  the  apartme?it,  and  who  starts  back  on  seeing 
him. 

lien,  [crossing  rapidly  to  her]  Can  I  believe  my  eyes  ! — un- 
happy girl ! — you  here,   in  the  palace — in  the  private  apart- 
ments of  the  Queen ! 
Diana,  [interrupting  htm]  My  dear  cousin — 
Queen,  [aside  to  her]  Silence  I 

Hen.  But  I  might  have  suspected  it ;  wherever  your   ac- 
complice is,  you  are  sure  not  to  be  far  off— you  can't  get  on 
without  each  other. 
Diana,  [affrighted]  Dare  you  speak  thus? 
Hen.  Oh,  she  understands  mo  ! 
Queen.  [  with  dign  ity]  Senhor  ! 
Hen.  Yes — that  imposing  air  becomes  you  well  I 
Diana.  What  can  you  be  thinking  of  1 
Hen.  I  cannot  live  without  her  !  If  there  be  no  other  means 
by  which  I  can  make  her  mine-^I've  decided — I've  resolved 
I'll  marry  her. 
Diana,  [sinking  on  the  fanteuil]    You— gracious  Heav  ens  I 
Hen.    [to  Diana]     Cousin,  dear  cousin,  I  know  what  you 
feel !  1  can  conceive  your  anger,  your  indignation  j  but  be 
satisfied,   Diana,    I  will  never  disgrace    my  name    or  my 
iriends— no,  we  will  fly— fly  to  some  far  distant  clime  ;  and 
for  my  fortune,  dear  girl,   little  will   suffice  for  our  honest 
wants — the  rest  I  leave  to  you  and  Sebastian. 
Queen,  [with  emotion]   Indeed  ! 

Hen.  Yes,  to  all  the  good  this  world  can  give   me,   I  prefer 
the  happiness — no,  the  infamy  of  being  thine.    [He  weeps. 
Diana.  Ah  !  this  is  too  much. 


THE    CROWN    DIAMONDS. 


15 


Queen,  [aside  to  her]  Silence!    )To  Hen.(  Adieu! 

Hen.  On  condition  that  we  meet  again. 

Queen,  [retreating]  I  promise  that  we  shall. 

Hen.   When? 

Queen.  To-day. 
Hen.  Where? 
Queen.  Here,  on  this  spot.  [Exeunt. 

Hen.  Here,  said  she  ?  Ah !  'tis  impossible !  She  has  again 
deceived  me !  but  for  greater  certainty  I'll — 

Diana,  [restraining  him]    What  would  you  do  ? 

Hen.  Follow  and  detain  her. 

Diana.  And  be  lost  for  error. 

Hen.  No  matter !    Ah !  my  uncle. 

Enter  Campo  Mayor,  Sebastian,  and  Soldiers. 
Cam.  [to  Seb.]  Arrest  this  gentleman.  [Indicating 

Hwr. 

Seb.  What  him,  my  friend  ? 

Cam.  [to  Hkx.J  Your  sword,  senhor,  your  sword — 

Hen.    By  what  right,  uncle? 

Cam.  By  order  of  her  majesty,  the  Queen,  who  has  given 
me  oxpi  ess  commands  to  take  charge  of  your  person. 

Hen.  [to  Seb.  giving  his  sword]  Here,  my  friend.  But 
there  must  be  some  mistake. 

Cam.  No,  senhor ;  I  never  made  a  mistake  in  my  life. 

Seb.  In  Heaven's  name,  what  has  he  done? 

Hen.  Of  what  am  I  accused? 

Cam.  The  crime  of  treason. 

Diana,  [aside]  There — I  was  sure  it  would  be  so. 

Cam.  Divers  outrages  against  the  Queen. 

Hen.  The  Queen — I  never  saw  the  Queen  in  my  life. 

Diana,  [aside]  He  thinks  so,  poor  fellow, 

Cam.  And  more  than  that — with  being  an  accomplice  of 
that  most  infamous,  wicked,  horrible,  disgraceful  woman — 

Diana  [quickly]  Oh,  father,  be  silent. 

Cam.  [in  a  loud  voice]  Why  should  I  be  silent  ?  1  say 
again,  of  that  infamous,  wicked,  horrible,  disgraceful  wo- 
man, Catarino  ! 

Hen.  Merciful  Heaven ! 

Cam.  You  can't  deny  this,  for  my  daughter  knows  all  about 
it;  and  so  do  I — [looking at  ring  on  his  finger] — that  is  to 
pay — no;  no — we  don't — we  know  nothing  about  it — and — 
[in  a  low  voice  to  Hex.]— I  must  beg  of  you,  nephew,  not  to 
compromise  us  in  the  matter  when  you  are  confronted  with 
her,  which  will  be  very  shortlv. 

Hen.  Very  shortly ! 

Cam.  Yes,  we  are  on  her  track :  she  has  had  the  impu- 
dence to  come  here — absolutely  into  the  Queen's  own  palace, 
and  ere  this  is  no  doubt  arrested. 

Hen.  Ah !  this  L  feared  must  happen.  But  I  will  throw 
myself  at  the  feet  of  the  Queen  and  ask  for  mercy  ;  not  for 
myself,  but  for  her,  poor  lost  one  ! 

[March  heard  behind  the  scenes. 

Cam.  Hark,  hark  !  the  Queen  is  repairing  to  the  throne- 
room — [looking  out  of  the  window.]  Yes,  there  is  her  cor- 
tege. 

FINALE. 
Diana.     Hark,  hark  !  the  martial  music  aladly  soundimr, 
Those  trumpets  shrill  ami  clear. 
Those  cries  of  joy  we  hear, 
On  high  the  royal  standard  proudly  floating. 
Proclaim  the  Queen  in  near. 
Hen.  Captive  thus — I  no  effort  now  can  make  to  save  her. 
Seb.    Her  majesty,  no  doubt,  will  soon  grant  your  pardon ; 
But  my  orders  are  strict, 
You  can't  stay  longer  here  ! 
Hen.  Sweet  saint  whom  I  adore — 

Her  safety  now  watch  o'er, 
For  her  life,  gladly  mine 


I  would  resign. 
Diana.  Soon  fortune  may  restore 

Her  whom  you  thus  adore ; 
Do  not  thus  hope  resign. 
She  may  be  thine  ! 
Seb.  Soon  fortune  may  restore 

You  to  your  friends  once  more ; 
Do  not  all  hope  resign, 
Nor  thus  repine. 
Hen.  Oh  !  thou  sweet  saint,  who  sit'st  above — 

Who  see'st  my  fear,  and  know'st  my  love, 
Catarina,  oh,  save,  and  gladly 
Will  I  life  resign,  &c,  &c. 
Seb.,  Diana  <$•  Cam.    The  Queen  approaches — she  is  near ; 
You  can  (must)  remain  no  longer  here ; 
Our  sovereign's  will  we  must  obey ; 
Away  !  away !  away  ! 
[Exeunt  Hen.,  Cam.,  Diana,  and  Seb.     The  curtains  are 
drawn    back,    and    discover    the    Queen    seated   on    her 
throne,  with  a  sceptre  in  her  hand,  and  a  crown  of  resplend- 
ent diamonds  on  her  head,  supported  by  Cam.  and  Rebol. 
Members  of  the  Regency,  Officers,  6fC. 
Chorus. 
Long  live  the  Queen  !    long  may  she  reign  ! 
Long  live  our  youthful  Sovereign, 
Who  by  her  grace  and  beauty 

Doth  every  heart  enchain ; 
Long  live  our  youthful  Sovereign, 
Her  rights  we  will  maintain  ! 
Recitative. 
Queen,  [on  the  throne]  My  people,  and  ye  nobles  all.     The 
Council  of  Regency,  in  transferring  to  me  the  sceptre  of  your 
kings,  invite  me  now  to  choose  a  partner  formy  throne  !    But 
I've  been  taught  the  noblest  attribute  of  the  power  that  to 
rulers  is  given,  is  justice  ;  and  I  first  will  render  that  to  all. 
[She  descends  from  the  throne,  and  comes  forward— to  Cam.] 
Now,  straight  conduct  your  nephew  before  us. 

Cam.  Madame,  no  longer  is  he  my  relation.     So  great  hath 
been  his  crime — all  ties  of  blood  I  discard. 
Don  Henrique  enters,  guarded  by  Sebastian  and  Soldiers. 
Hen.  [bowing]  Mercy,  most  gracious  sovereign  !     Mercy, 
not  for  myself,  but  for  Catari — [looks  in  her  face] — Heaven  ! 
Seb.  How  now  ! 
Diana.  Keep  silence  both,  I  pray. 

SOLO— Queen. 
Now  by  my  people's  voice, 
I'm  left  a  husband's  choice, 
Queen  of  this  noble  land, 
Mistress  of  my  hand ; 
My  thanks  to  one  and  all  are  due, 
My  loyal  friends,  my  subjects  true. 
And  since  then  all  agree, 
My  choice  shall  be  free. 
Here,  here  your  Prince  doth  stand. 

[Placing  her  hand  in  that  of  Hen. 
Chorus,  (as  before)  Long  live  the  Queen,  &c. 
[The  Queen  during  this  chorus  has  signed  to  Rebol.  who 
apparently  explains  all  to  Hen. 
Queen,  [in  a  low  voice  to  Hex.]    Well,  Catarina  predicted 
that  you  would  marry  her  at  last. 

Hen.  I — I  know  not  what  to  say  ;  my  feelings  overpower 
me.     Believe  in  my  devotion,  my  affection,  my  truth  ! 

Queen.  I  do,  I  do  !     Nothing  but  these   [indicating  dia- 
monds]  ARE  FALSE. 

Chorus,  (as  before)  Long  live  the  Queen,  &c. 

THE    END. 


w 


carpi*  WARSHOBSB I 

FRANK   BAKER, 

IMPORTER  6c  WHOLESALE  &  RETAIL  DEALER  IN 


CAIPET 


? 


L©T 


9 


UPH&1STERY     GOODSp 

•v^7".a-TiTi  :e»-a.:e»esh,  :oo:j~l:d:e3:ifljs,  c&c. 
FIRE  PROOF  BUILDING, 

No.  135  and  137  Clay  Street,  below  Montgomery, 


YEMIT 


PJ0J1IEIP.  HAT  EIWPORJ Uffl 


9 


Z.      BLOCK, 

174  Clay  Street,  between  Montgomery  &  Kearny. 


N.  B.  HATS  OF  ALL  KINDS  MADE  TO  ORDER. 


T.    GIHON, 


E  UNT  G- 

Coruer  Clay  &  Montgomery  Sts.,  over  Keith's  Drag  Store, 


^»^j3@ 


WOOD  WORTH  &;  CO., 


No.  130  Clay  Street,  near  Sansome, 


Have  secured,  by  contract  with  the  Manufacturers,  the  exclu- 
sive sale,  for  the  State  of  California,  of  the  celebrated — 


IBJ^m^  MJJTO  TOM8!  1©^, 

a  full  supply  of  which,  comprising  all  the  various  sizes,  styles 
and  patterns,  may  be  constantly  found  at  their  Ware  Rooms. 
They  are  likewise  exclusive  Agents  for  the — 


il  Hi 


HELODEON 


and  Importers  of — 

PIANO  FORTES  AND  MUSIC  STOOLS. 
A  stock  of  Piano  Fortes,  of  the  Stodart  Manufacture,  has  been 
got  up  expressly  for  Hire,  andmay  be  obtained  as  above. 


